Description
Creamy Gochujang Pasta is a bold and comforting fusion dish that combines spicy Korean gochujang sauce with rich, creamy textures and silky noodles. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy recipe delivers a unique twist on classic pasta, perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a satisfying, flavorful meal with customizable spice and protein options.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz linguine, fettuccine, or pasta of choice
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons gochujang paste (Korean chili paste)
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 1/4 cup water or broth (optional, to thin the sauce)
Optional Protein
- 1 cup cooked chicken, tofu, or shrimp (optional)
Garnishes
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Additional sliced green onions
- Fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
- Chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta: Cook your preferred pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large pan, heat the vegetable or sesame oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic and sliced green onions until fragrant and softened, about 1-2 minutes.
- Create the sauce: Add the gochujang paste, soy sauce, and a splash of water or broth to the pan, stirring to combine and warm through.
- Stir in the cream: Lower the heat and pour in heavy cream or your chosen alternative, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly to the pan, tossing to coat each strand evenly with the creamy, spicy sauce. If using protein, fold it in now to warm through.
- Finish and serve: Adjust seasoning if needed, garnish with additional green onions, toasted sesame seeds, chili flakes, or fresh herbs, and serve immediately while warm and comforting.
Notes
- Use good quality gochujang for best flavor; well-fermented paste delivers richer taste.
- Cook pasta al dente to maintain texture and hold the sauce well.
- Adjust cream quantity depending on desired sauce thickness and richness.
- Use low heat when adding cream to prevent curdling.
- Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil add brightness and fresh contrast to the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg